England press bemoan 'bad light'

Hailing the national team for a 'victorious summer', the British press lamented the bad light situation which forced the final Test to be called off with England well in control of the match. Chasing a target of 227 runs from 44 overs, the hosts were well poised at 206/5 after 40 overs when fading light forced the match to be called off.

The Daily Mail emphasized on the fact that it was for the first time since 1977, the Australians had failed to win even a single rubber in the entire series. "England's fearless attempt to catch up with Australia was cut short with the game minutes away from a thrilling climax," said the Daily Mail's match report.

"They rose to the challenge in the most spectacular way to thrillingly march towards that unprecedented English 4-0 Ashes success. Amid the frustration, it should not be overlooked that a draw leaves Australia without a win in an Ashes series for the first time since 1977," it added.

The 'Daily Telegraph' termed the English chase as a brave effort and one of the most fearless chases in recent cricket history. Vic Marks, writing for the 'Gaurdian' praised Michael Clarke for forcing England out of their comfort zone and pushing them towards a tense chase. "He (Clarke) had to shame England into chasing the runs," he wrote. "He managed that all right and he had the vast majority of onlookers purring with delight," he wrote. However, Marks felt that Cook was still the better captain and the 3-0 winning margin vindicated his leadership abilities.

Scyld Berry, writing for the 'Daily Telegraph' concluded that England had just concluded a Pyrrhic victory and the pitches had been tailor made to suit the strengths of off-spinner, Graeme Swann. England have won, and won well, but not in a way that will attract millions from 20-over cricket and the Indian Premier League," he said.

"Cricket has lost out thanks to a dull contest played out on lifeless pitches," he added. "Playing every match on the same sort of pitch -- as if England had carted one drop-in pitch to every venue -- has resulted in a Pyrrhic victory."

When cricket lovers wake on Thursday, they will be consumed with excitement. A concoction of nerves, energy and enthusiasm overcome in readiness for the first day of the Australian Test summer. For Australian and English supporters, there is extra emotion attached for an Ashes series.

Australia captain Michael Clarke was a relieved man after hitting his 8th ODI century in an 88-run win over England at Old Trafford as he played a key role in his first victory over a Test nation in seven months.